Relocation during Divorce Isn't Always the Best Solution

In most cases couples choose to live apart during the divorce process, but with the current cost of living, more couples are choosing to avoid relocation during divorce and even afterward in order to save money and spare the children the heartbreak of being separated from one of their parents. While the idea of living in the same house but leading separate lives doesn't work for everyone, it is a solution that is available and works for those who are at least able to still live together. If you choose to continue living in the marital home with your spouse after the divorce , you will need to come to an agreement about the terms of the arrangement.
Most couples would not even consider the idea of continuing to live together after they decide to divorce, but the arrangement works well for those who are able to agree to certain provisions of the arrangement. There are several reasons a couple may choose to continue living together instead of subjecting themselves and their families to relocation during divorce. The reasons include any number of the following:
• Desire to remain close to the children and involved in their lives
• Reduce the amount of trauma the children suffer because of the divorce
• Lack of funds to rent or purchase a new residence and still fulfill other financial obligations
• Operating a home-based business out of the marital residence
• Job requires a lot of travel so having another residence is senseless
• The depressed housing market would make selling the house an unprofitable venture
• Financial or credit issues prevent either spouse from obtaining a mortgage or lease
• Health issues prevent one or both spouses from living alone
Relocation during divorce may seem like a necessary part of the process, and for most couples it is. However, many couples find they cannot live together as husband and wife but are capable of living together as roommates or friends. In those cases the idea of living together but leading separate lives is certainly more beneficial than for the couple to struggle to make ends meet.
If you and your spouse decide against relocation during and/or after your divorce, you need to make sure your perspective divorce lawyers draw up an agreement that defines the terms of the arrangement. Some of the things you may wish to include in your agreement include the following:
• Financial responsibility—who is going to pay for what expenses?
• Handling of meals---will you eat together or are you each responsible for your own meals. Which one of you will feed the children?
• How will household chores be divided?
• Will there be any family gatherings that will include both of you for the sake of the children? How about the occasional dinner out? Who will pay?
• Who is responsible for medical expenses that are not covered by insurance ?
• How will you handle individual entertaining? Dating ?
It is essential for you to clearly define the arrangement so there is no question. You also want to make sure the children understand that living in the same house does not translate into the potential you will someday get back together—this is one of the main drawbacks of continuing to live in the same house (sending mixed messages to the children).